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The botanical roof top of Chateau Carbide at the Carbide & Carbon Building, which houses Pendry Chicago is hosting a pop-up this week on Friday, November 8, with one of Andersonville's most beloved cocktail spots and James Beard Award Finalist, Nobody's Darling. It's a fitting time to rally against the norms, transcend expectations and pop open a bunch of bottles. Owned and operated by Angela Barnes and Renauda Riddle, Nobody's Darling is a LGBTQ-led team who have made a name for themselves with thoughtfully crafted cocktails and an inclusive ambiance for spirit enthusiasts of all orientations and backgrounds.
For one night only shake up some sips created by beverage manager Chasity Beasley including cocktails like Gwendolyn’s Verse with Uncle Nearest Whiskey, banana and cinnamon and the Kahlo Margarita with John Basil reposado tequila, passion fruit liquor, and habanero bitters. I spoke with Beasley, Riddle and Barnes below about bringing Andersonville to the Magnificent Mile, election anxiety remedies to get you through the day, and pure sensory joy through libations.
This interview will be published on Election Day. If you could put everyone's anxiety into a cocktail remedy what would be the ingredients?
The best cocktail remedy for your anxiety for Election Day is a neat pour of rye whiskey with one cube and a glass of champagne to chase that smooth whiskey. This cocktail remedy will hold you and excite you at the same time. Hopefully, your anxiety will calm a bit! - Chasity Beasley, Nobody's Darling Beverage Manager
Below questions can be attributed to both Angela Barnes and Renauda Riddle, co-owners.
You both came together to create a space and cocktail menu that reflects both your dreams, laidback but also heel worthy. How does the pop-up at Chateau Carbide match those two aesthetics?
The elegant Chateau Carbide is the perfect backdrop to experience our “inclusive and intoxicating cocktail experience”.
Nobody's Darling has been described as a joyful, safe and welcoming space for all. Can you explain the importance of what it means to bring what you have created in Andersonville and share it with a new audience downtown?
We are excited and always humbled to let a new audience experience the energy and warmth of Nobody's Darling. We believe that our cocktails embody the spirit of inclusivity, creativity and sensory joy.
Chicago often feels like a progressive bubble within our metropolis, but even in Andersonville, the odds of a queer woman owned business succeeding were not great. Can you talk about how Nobody's Darling overcame these odds and what makes Nobody's Darling a gem beyond the press accolades and awards?
We approached this endeavor with an eye towards centering women but welcoming all. We also believe that everyone loves a great cocktail! Our goal continues to be to provide our community with the most intoxicating drinks and memorable experiences.
What is your favorite cocktail coming to the Chateau Carbide pop-up? My vote goes to Gwendolyn’s Verse with Uncle Nearest. I hear banana and cinnamon and I'm in.
It's impossible to choose a favorite cocktail at Nobody's Darling. It's like trying to pick your favorite child. Each cocktail gives your taste buds something a little different and exciting. Join us Friday, November 8th, excite your taste buds, and be Nobody’s Darling!
The Nobody's Darling pop-up at Chateau Carbide will be Friday, November 8, from 5 to 10pm. Reservations are encouraged and can be made via OpenTable here. Walk-ins will be welcomed, space permitting.
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